Or I should report the emitter voltage more
exactly. I'll verify this. Tell me something,
how terrible an idea is it to use disk ceramic
for C15, C16, and C17? I have heard of
disk ceramics being capable of conducting DC
if made badly.

The disc ceramics should be ok, as long as they're
good.

I've never built this circuit, I'm just looking at it
as a paper exercise. DC measurements will usually
locate the problem. Spice may be overkill ;-)

GL & 73,

John - K6QQ